The government is to change the law to give local authorities the power to stage motor races on public roads.
It is currently a criminal offence in England, Wales and Scotland to promote or take part in a motor race or trial of speed on a highway or public road without specific legislative approval.
In the past, Parliament has passed legislation, via a Private Member’s Bill, to approve individual races such as the Jim Clark Rally and the Tour of Mull on an event-by-event basis but this process can take 18 months.
However, after a public consultation, the government is now proposing to give local authorities the powers to suspend speed limits and some traffic regulations in certain conditions.
It is thought that the change could result in as many as 20 races every year on public roads.
Culture Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Motor sport has a huge following in the UK. These changes will provide more opportunities for fans to enjoy the sport locally and give a financial boost to local economies through the added benefits of tourism, shopping and spending.”
The UK currently hosts around 9000 motor sports events each year organised by Motor Sport Association member clubs and the Auto Cycle Union member clubs with the vast majority taking place at purpose-built venues or in remote rural off-road locations.